Japan qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026: Details here
What's the story
Japan created history by becoming the first nation to book a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Samurai Blue made the achievement after beating Bahrain 2-0 in Saitama, with both the goals coming in the second half.
This win comes as Japan sailed through the third round of Asia's qualification campaign, three games in advance.
Journey
Japan's path to World Cup qualification
The Asian Football Confederation gets eight spots in the 48-team tournament, with an additional spot through inter-continental play-offs.
18 teams are divided into three groups in the third round, with the top two from each group getting their World Cup berth.
Japan topped Group C with ease and have now qualified for their eighth consecutive World Cup.
Dominance
Japan's impressive performance in qualifiers
Under Hajime Moriyasu, Japan has been phenomenal in the qualification rounds. The team won all six matches in the second round and remains unbeaten with six wins and a draw in the third round.
Key players like Wataru Endo, Kaoru Mitoma, and Takumi Minamino have been key to their success.
Confirmation
Japan's qualification solidified by other results
Japan's qualification was also confirmed by Australia's 5-1 victory over Indonesia earlier in the day.
Even a draw would have been enough for Japan to seal their spot.
Daichi Kamada scored the first goal for Japan just three minutes after coming on as a substitute, while Takefusa Kubo added another in the 87th minute, sealing their World Cup berth.
Information
Japan are unbeaten in their qualifying campaign
Japan are top of Group C in the FIFA World Cup Qualifying - AFC table. After 7 matches, they have six wins and a draw. Japan own 19 points and are placed above Australia (10 points). Japan have scored 24 goals and conceded two.